The Public Health Advocacy Institute (PHAI) has announced the appointment of Dr. Matt Gaskell, MBE, as the organization’s first International Consultant on Gambling Policy. Dr. Gaskell’s addition to the PHAI team marks a significant step forward in bringing comprehensive, global public health regulation and accountability to the gambling industry and its sports and technology partners.
Dr. Gaskell is one of the world’s leading authorities on gambling harm prevention, policy, and treatment, and is internationally recognized as an advocate for comprehensive regulation of the gambling industry. He currently serves as the Founder and Clinical Lead for gambling harm clinics across the north of England, and is a member of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Expert Group on Gambling.
Dr. Gaskell is also a highly regarded licensed psychologist and one of the foremost clinicians working with individuals and families seeking to overcome gambling disorder and gambling-related harm. In 2025, he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by His Majesty King Charles III for services to people affected by gambling-related harm.
“I am honored to join PHAI and bring my expertise to protecting the public from the unacceptable harms associated with the modern commercial gambling industry and its sports partners. I look forward to bringing my expertise and strategic planning to PHAI, working alongside Dr. Richard Daynard, Professor Mark Gottlieb, and Dr. Harry Levant to further PHAI’s work in the months and years to come,” Dr. Gaskell said.
“I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Gaskell to the team. Matt has worked tirelessly to bring accountability to the gambling industry. His involvement with PHAI will unquestionably bring our work to even higher levels,” Professor Mark Gottleib, PHAI’s Executive Director, said.
Dr. Harry Levant, Director of Gambling Policy at PHAI, said: “I have long considered Dr. Gaskell a friend, colleague, and source of inspiration. He has, for years, stood tall fighting for the mental health and safety of countless people suffering from gambling-related harm. Matt has my respect and admiration, and it will be a privilege to have him on the PHAI team.”
